Skinning

[wfo204]

Looking at getting new skinning knife/knifes. Just wondering what you all recommend or suggest for skinning fox, coons, and coyotes? Thanks for the help.

[Pa Goosehntr]

  Without being a smarta$$ I recommend one that is sharp and stays sharp  But my preference is one with less than a 4" blade that holds a sharpened edge and is comfortable to hold... Comfortable to hold = one that you don't hafta pinch to hold because it is too small nor one you hafta stretch you hand to hold....it hasta feel right... You will go through several til you find the right one.  Mine is a paring knife made by Victorinox....some folks like Chicago Blue knives...you will have to decide what works for you...get a fleshing tool also, a necker... This is the season to experiment on what works for you!! 

[Hern]

I always liked a knife with a distinct point. With the point, I can make entry cuts and cuts around eyes.
I would suggest a 4" fillet knife. Nice pointed tip and blade long enough to make cuts through thick butt fur.
Like Goose said, you may go through a few knives until you find what works for you.
I have skun and put up fur with many guys over the years. The wide variety of knives I've seen used is crazy, from Marine KABAR to a single razor blade held between finger and thumb. Not trying to say that in a bad way, shows how we can adapt and use any tool, I guess.
So, I feel a bit off when recommending knives, boots, rain gear, ammo and such.

Here's the knives I use for skun'n:
Top- Dexter Russell Bolens, 2 1/2" blade
Second-  Finland fillet knife, 4" blade (fast becoming my favorite and the one I always reach for)
Third- Ole favorite, no name, been with me a long time, 2 3/4" blade
Bottom- Ole sharpening stone
 

Here's a Mink pelting knife. Razor blade. I just couldn't get the hang of this knife, and it's laid around for years without being used.
Martor #360, German made.
 
 

[wfo204]

Thank you